Obituaries

Kenneth H. Roberts, age 78, of Salem, N.H., formerly a long-time resident of Wilmington and Reading, died peacefully surrounded by his family on November 1, 2012, following a lengthy illness.

Ken was born in Wakefield, on August 28, 1934, he was the dear son of the late William and Mary Joyce (Quinn) Roberts. Ken was raised and educated in the West Side of Reading and was a graduate of Reading High School with the Class of 1954. Following graduation, Ken enlisted in the U. S. Army on December 1, 1954, during the Korean War and served overseas. He was honorably discharged from active duty on November 5, 1958, and returned home to his family in Reading. Ken continued to serve the country in the Army Reserves until being honorably discharged on May 31, 1962, following many years of dedicated service.

Ken married “the love of his life” Nita VonKahle on January 24, 1959, sharing more than 53 years of marriage and raising a wonderful family of seven children. Ken and Nita moved to Wilmington in May of 1961, where they were active in the community and were members of St. Dorothy’s Church for many years. Ken was a member of the Lions Club of Wilmington and served as president for a year.

Prior to retiring, Ken worked as a Quality Control Specialist for Goodall Sanford Tire Company and General Tire Company in Reading for more than 30 years. Ken was also employed as a custodian for the Town of Wilmington for 10 years. Ken was a dedicated employee and a good friend to many co-workers over the years.

In his spare time, Ken enjoyed reading, playing cards, puzzles, and watching football. He also loved to travel all over with his wife, family, and a tight knit group of friends known as the Dirty Dozen. They had lots of great times dancing at various local clubs such as the Moose Club in North Reading, Knights of Columbus in Tewksbury, and the Billerica Rod and Gun Club. They made wonderful memories together.

Family was first and foremost to Ken, he was a devoted husband, dedicated father, and loving grandfather. He and Nita brought their children up to love and respect family and family values. Ken shared a close and special bond with his family, he was very proud of them, and showed them unconditional love. He will be truly missed by all.

Family and friends will gather for a Funeral Service at the Nichols Funeral Home, Inc., 187 Middlesex Ave. (Rte. 62), Wilmington on Tuesday, November 6th at 11:00 a.m. Interment Wildwood Cemetery, Wilmington. Visiting hours Monday, November 5th from 4-8 p.m. Memorial donations in Ken’s name may be made to Local Heroes, Inc., P. O. Box 536, Wilmington, MA 01887.

28 Entries in Guest Book for “Kenneth H. Roberts”

To the Roberts family so sorry to hear of your loss. Kenny was my dad next door ! Quick with a joke and and funny names for all . He was a great guy . He had a big family and a big heart! He will be missed !

Dear Roberts Family, I’m sadden to hear of your loss. Although I never met “Papa” ~ he sounded like a great man. Keep your memories of him in your heart and he will be with you forever. My prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Dear Nita and Family Bill and I were so sorry to hear about Ken Iknow he he has been ill for sometime. You took good care of him You and your family will be in our prayers and thoughts Terri and Bill Carney

Our deepest sympathy to all the family. Ken will be missed by not only his family but everyone who knew him. You could always get a warm welcome with his tea in hand and listen to a story or two, he had so much warmth and wisdom to share. Always made you feel good after a conversation with him he will be missed by his family more than words can express.

My deepest sympathy to all the family. Ken was a wonderful man and I know how much he will be missed. I am blessed to have known him and have be a part of my life for as long as I did. He always had a way of making you feel better by finding the humor in life.

Karen, I didn’t know your dad, but seeing the things everyone has written, I am so sorry that I didn’t get to meet him for a longer time than at your wedding. I know that it is difficult and you will miss him terribly, but I am sure you have wonderful memories that will console you.

For the Roane & Roberts families and all of the others who were blessed with knowing your Father, Husband, Papa, Uncle, Brother, neighbor and friend. We were saddened to hear of his passing, Wanted you to know you will all be in our thoughts and prayers while you go through this challenging time of having a new angel receive his wings.
Sincerely – Scott, Kathie, Ashlee & Britnee